Alaskapox death brings attention to small animal virus
For nine years, Alaska health officials have been aware of an unusual virus causing rare, relatively mild illnesses in the Fairbanks area.But a recent case in another part of the state — this one resulting in a man's death — has brought new attention to the Alaskapox virus.Here's some background on the virus.What is Alaskapox?Alaskapox belongs to a family of brick-shaped viruses that can infect animals and humans. These bugs, known as orthopoxviruses, tend to cause lesions, or pox, on the skin. Each has its own…